Back in February 2025, I wrote an article highlighting something that surprised many people: only one of our local MSPs attended the “Save Local Libraries” bill debate.

That MSP was Paul Sweeney (Labour).

At a time when local libraries — including Cardonald Library — face uncertain futures, you would expect strong attendance and engagement from those elected to represent us. Instead, most were absent.

Now, with the 2026 Scottish Parliament election approaching, I thought it would be useful to take a second look — who is standing again, and who isn’t?

Because if this issue matters to you, it’s worth asking:

If they didn’t attend then — why would they act now?

Who Is Standing Again?

Here’s where things currently stand:

Standing Down

• Humza Yousaf (SNP) — Standing down
• Pam Duncan-Glancy (Labour) — Standing down (also currently suspended from the Labour Party)

These MSPs will not be seeking re-election in 2026.

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Running for 2026

These MSPs are standing again in 2026:

• Patrick Harvie (Greens) — Running for 2026
• Anas Sarwar (Labour) — Running for 2026
• Annie Wells (Conservative) — Running for 2026
• Sandesh Gulhane (Conservative) — Running for 2026
• Pauline McNeill (Labour) — Running for 2026

And finally:

• Paul Sweeney (Labour) — The ONLY MSP who attended the Save Local Libraries Bill — Running for 2026

Make an Informed Choice

This post isn’t about telling anyone how to vote.

It’s simply about providing information so you can make an informed decision — especially if the future of local libraries is important to you.

Because ultimately, representation is about showing up.

And in February 2025, only one MSP did.